Mike Budnik vs. John Franchi set for WEC 39

Coming off the first loss of his professional career, Mike Budnik (7-1) will meet undefeated WEC newcomer John Franchi (4-0) at WEC 39.

Sources close to the fighters today told MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) the bout has been finalized.

WEC 39, a championship double-header and the first WEC event in Texas, takes place March 1 at the American Bank Center in Corpus Christi. Mike Brown defends his featherweight title against Leonard Garcia, and Carlos Condit defends his welterweight bout against Brock Larson.

The event’s main card airs live on Versus.

Budnik, a nine-time X Games inline skating medalist, most recently fought in December and suffered a 61-second submission loss to rising prospect and three-time Division I All-American wrestler Shane Roller at WEC 37. Prior to the loss, Budnik launched his career with seven consecutive victories, four of which came via submission and two via knockout.

Franchi, a one-time IFL fighter, turned pro in October 2007. He posted three consecutive victories (two via TKO and one via submission) in Northeast-based shows and then earned an invitation to the IFL, where he submitted Frank Latina in May.

Franchi signed a five-fight deal with the WEC in July and was expected to debut versus Jose Also at WEC 36. However, an injury forced Franchi off the card, and he was ultimately replaced by Jonathan Brookins.

For the latest on WEC 39, stay tuned to the MMA Rumors section of MMAjunkie.com.